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Hellas Verona striker Luca Toni to play for as long as possible

Hellas Verona striker Luca Toni says that his love of football will keep him playing the game for as long as possible.

By Nadia Carminati

Last Updated: 25/08/13 5:51pm

Luca Toni: The Hellas Verona striker says he plans to continue playing for as long as possible

The 36-year old signed for the newly-promoted Serie A side earlier this summer following his release from Fiorentina after one season at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Verona are now the 15th club Toni has represented and the Italian admitted that he could have quite easily retired at the end of last season, had he wished to do so.

"Luckily in my life I've earned a lot and I play again only because I like football," he told Gazzetta Dello Sport.

"I like training, I like making sacrifices and until it will be so, I'll continue playing."

Toni netted both goals as Verona came from behind to secure a shock 2-1 win over AC Milan in their opening game of the season on Saturday and he is hoping that the feel-good factor surrounding the club can help them to stay up.

"Before the match there was a little tension because we knew we'd face a strong side," he said.

"I feel really good with these guys. We are only at the beginning of the season, but I'm enjoying myself and this is important.

"There is an incredible enthusiasm and we must use it to get positive results and achieve safety as soon as possible."